Ep 162: You Can’t Help People for Free If You Want to Keep Helping with Nicole Liloia

Send us Fan MailIf you’re great at therapy but secretly uneasy about money, marketing, or the sheer logistics of running a practice, this conversation is for you. We sit down with Nicole Liloia, LCSW, to talk about what actually makes a private practice sustainable, not just inspiring on paper. Because “I didn’t get into this for the money” can be true, and it can still lead straight to burnout if your business can’t support your life.We dig into the practical foundations: how to know your numbers, set an income goal that accounts for taxes, business expenses, health insurance, vacation time, and retirement, and calculate what your average session rate really is (especially if you take multiple insurance plans). We also talk about why so many therapists avoid tracking revenue and time, how ADHD and time blindness can amplify overwork, and why outsourcing tasks like billing can be a smart sustainability move rather than a luxury.Then we shift into modern therapist marketing strategy. Algorithms change, directories change, and what worked during the pandemic may not work now. Nicole shares how to pivot without chasing every shiny tactic, why you should never rely on a single referral source, and how one small intake form tweak can reveal exactly where your best clients come from. We also make the case for a clear niche and client-word messaging so the people you’re meant to help can immediately recognize themselves.If you want a therapist business that lasts, listen through, join the conversation, and then subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review so more clinicians can build sustainable private practices without burning out.This podcast is meant to be a resource for the general public, as well as fellow therapists/psychologists. It is NOT meant to replace the meaningful work of individual or family therapy. Please seek professional help in your area if you are struggling. #breakthestigma #makewordsmatter #thingsyoulearnintherapy #thingsyoulearnintherapypodcastIf you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, please contact 988 or seek a treatment provider in your area.If you are a therapist or psychologist and want to be a guest on the show, please complete this form to apply: https://forms.gle/ooy8QirpgL2JSLhP6Feel free to share your thoughts at www.makewordsmatterforgood.com or email me at [email protected] the showwww.bethtrammell.com